Reading B1/B2 . Model 1: Multiple questions for a text.

🌟 B1 – Integrated Tips + Reading Exercise

Topic: Alejandro Amenábar

Instructions

Read the text about the filmmaker Alejandro Amenábar.For questions 1–6, choose the answer (A, B, C or D).

B1 Reading Tips (Use these during the task!)

TIP 1 – Focus on the main idea.

You don’t need to understand every detail.

TIP 2 – Use elimination.

Cross out answers that are impossible or not mentioned.

TIP 3 – Look for time markers.

Words like later, then, and after help with chronological questions.

Text – Alejandro Amenábar: A Successful Film Director

Alejandro Amenábar is a famous film director and screenwriter who was born in Chile but grew up in Spain. He became interested in movies when he was very young. TIP: Birthplaces and background often help with the first question.

As a student, Amenábar started making short films with a small camera. His talent was quickly noticed, and he made his first full film, Tesis, when he was only in his early twenties. The film was very successful and won several awards in Spain.

Later, Amenábar directed Abre los ojos, a science fiction thriller. The story was so original that an American version called Vanilla Sky was made a few years later. TIP: When the text gives an example (a film title or a remake), questions may ask “why is it important?”

Amenábar is also known for directing The Others, an English-language film starring Nicole Kidman. Many people around the world enjoyed the movie because of its mysterious atmosphere.

In addition to directing, Amenábar writes music for some of his films. He enjoys being involved in every part of the creative process. Today, he continues to make films that attract both Spanish and international audiences.

Questions — choose A, B, C or D

TIP: Read the question first, then look for the part of the text that answers it.

TIP: Read the question first, then look for the part of the text that answers it.

1 Where did Alejandro Amenábar grow up?

A) In Chile only

B) In the United States

C) In Spain

D) In England

2 What did Amenábar do when he was a student?

A) He acted in Hollywood films.

B) He started making short films.

C) He studied American history.

D) He wrote a book about movies.

3 What is said about Tesis?

A) It won several awards.

B) It was filmed in English.

C) It was not very successful.

D) It was made with a big budget.

4 Why is Abre los ojos mentioned?

A) It was filmed in Chile.

B) It became an American TV series.

C) It inspired a remake in the USA.

D) It is Amenábar’s only film.

5 Why did The Others become popular?

A) It had a very mysterious atmosphere.

B) It was a comedy.

C) It was a documentary.

D) It starred only Spanish actors.

6 What does the text say about Amenábar today?

A) He has stopped making films.

B) He works only as a musician.

C) He continues to create movies.

D) He no longer writes scripts.

Answer key — B1

1. C

2. B

3. A

4. C

5. A

6. C

🌟 B2 – Integrated Tips + Reading Exercise

Topic: Alejandro Amenábar

Instructions

Read the text below. For questions 1–6, choose the answer (A, B, C or D).

B2 Reading Tips (Use as you read!)

TIP 1 – Watch contrast words.

However, although, despite show important shifts.

TIP 2 – Identify viewpoints and reasons.

At B2, questions often ask why, not just what.

TIP 3 – Avoid extreme-sounding answers.

If an option says always, never, only, be careful.

TIP 4 – Don’t choose answers just because the words match.

Meaning > vocabulary.

Text – Alejandro Amenábar: Creativity, Influence, and International Reach

Alejandro Amenábar is widely recognised as one of the most influential contemporary filmmakers in the Spanish-speaking world. Although he was born in Chile, his family moved to Spain during his childhood, and it was there that he developed his passion for cinema. This multicultural background later influenced the themes of identity and uncertainty that appear in several of his films.

Amenábar’s early success was remarkable. His first major film, Tesis, not only won major Spanish awards but also established him as a director unafraid to explore dark or controversial topics. His next film, Abre los ojos, blended psychological drama with science fiction. Its originality attracted international attention, and Hollywood produced a remake starring Tom Cruise.

TIP: When the text highlights consequences (“This led to…”, “As a result…”), expect questions about impact.

In 2001, Amenábar directed The Others, his first English-language film. The movie was praised for its atmosphere, careful pacing, and strong performances. It proved that Amenábar could succeed outside Spain and appeal to a global audience.

Besides directing, Amenábar composes music for some of his films, which allows him to control the emotional tone of key scenes. His ability to work across different areas of filmmaking is often seen as one reason for his distinctive style.

Today, Amenábar continues to release films that mix suspense, philosophical questions, and emotional depth. Despite changes in the film industry, he remains a respected voice whose work attracts both critics and audiences.

Questions — choose A, B, C or D

TIP: Ask: Which option is supported directly by the text?

1 What influence did Amenábar’s background have on his work?

A) It made him focus only on Chilean culture.

B) It inspired themes related to identity and uncertainty.

C) It encouraged him to direct only documentaries.

D) It prevented him from making international films.

2 What is highlighted about Tesis?

A) It was unpopular with audiences.

B) It avoided difficult topics.

C) It gained awards and attention for its bold themes.

D) It was the last film he directed.

3 Why did Abre los ojos attract international interest?

A) It was filmed entirely in English.

B) Its originality caught the attention of Hollywood.

C) It was a comedy about everyday life.

D) It was produced in the United States.

4 What did The Others demonstrate about Amenábar?

A) He could succeed with non-Spanish-language films.

B) He preferred to work only with new actors.

C) He no longer wanted to make films in Spain.

D) He planned to stop working after the film.

5 What advantage does Amenábar gain by composing film music?

A) He writes shorter scripts.

B) He can control the emotional tone of scenes.

C) He spends less time directing.

D) He doesn’t have to hire actors.

6 What is the writer’s view of Amenábar today?

A) His influence has completely disappeared.

B) He works only in independent cinema now.

C) He continues to create respected and engaging films.

D) He is no longer interests international audiences.

Answer key — B2

1. B

2. C

3. B

4. A

5. B

6. C